The new version (ver.1.0) software application allows photographers control over how they adjust their raw files, making it possible to produce high-quality images that have been shot in raw format.

The software can be used with a Nikon DSLR camera, a Nikon 1 advanced camera with interchangeable lenses, Nikon Coolpix cameras that support raw, and other digital cameras that also support raw images, says the company.

Zurab Kiknadze, product manager at Nikon Europe, said: “We launched a beta version of Capture NX-D earlier in 2014 and have been actively welcoming feedback, suggestions and functionality requests from users. The release of this free-to-download official version of the application takes this feedback into account – for example, you’ll see improvements to the user interface and the ways in which adjustments are applied. We’re thrilled that we are able to offer Capture NX-D free of charge to people wanting to take control of their images.”

Capture NX-D can also be used with raw images taken on a Nikon D810 or earlier DSLR via Picture Control Utility 2, which can be activated from Capture NX-D.

Nikon has also updated software functions in response to customer requests; for example, it has added an automatic retouch brush for improved image processing.

The company says it will continue to add new features, and update and improve future versions of the application.

Capture NX-D also supports simple editing of JPEG and TIFF images.

Users will need the following system requirements to run the software:

Windows OS: Windows Vista (Service Pack 2), Windows 7 (Service Pack 1), Windows 8.1. According to Nikon, both 32-bit and 64-bit versions are supported, but it recommends 64-bit versions. The application can also be installed on computers running pre-installed versions of these operating systems, the company adds.

Other system requirements for Windows users are:

CPU: Pentium-compatible (Core i5 or better recommended); RAM (memory): 2GB or more (4GB or more recommended), 4GB or more under 64-bit operating systems.